You Know You’ve Lived in Owensboro Quite a While If…

How long have you lived in Owensboro? I've been here the whole time. And I remember quite a few things that aren't the way they used to be or don't look like they used to look.

And, VIVIDLY, I might add.

So, if you're like me, you know you've lived in Owensboro quite a while if...

1. You Remember J.R. Miller Boulevard Was Once Called Lewis Street

Ethan Payne

Remember that? Remember that the railroad track ran right down the middle of Lewis Street? (And, not to be confused with Lewis LANE--always need to throw that in.) Remember that Lewis Street did not run all the way through town? Yep, good ol' Lewis Street. And, yes, that whole Lewis Street/Lewis Lane thing ALWAYS confused me.

2. The North End of Frederica Street Was Where You Launched Your Boat

Google Street View

When I was a kid, I loved watching the boats launch from that old ramp. Of course, when I got older and was driving I became very conscious of my brakes when I approached that intersection...for obvious reasons.

3. You Visited the Public Library at the Top of the Hill on McCreary Avenue

Ethan Payne

It's been more than 10 years since the library moved to its current location. (Can you BELIEVE that?!?) And I'm quite used to that now. For a while after the move, I don't know how many times I drove up that McCreary Avenue hill before realizing I'd made a mistake.

4. Some of Your Fondest Summer Memories Still Involve Miller Lake

Dave Spencer

What a summertime destination! I don't know how many times we all went swimming each summer at Miller Lake. What a blast! That concession stand. The picnic areas up that tree-lined drive on the ridge. The boat rides. The miniature golf. Awesome!

5. You Remember That Big Owensboro Sportscenter Sign at Frederica and Parrish

Google Street View

Oh, you know, this one reminds me of another one. But I'll start with that big lighted sign with the arrows that pointed down Parrish Avenue toward the Owensboro Sportscenter. Now, for the second part of this recollection...

BONUS: You Remember When 13th Street Turned INTO 12th Street

How confusing was THAT?!? Parrish would become 13th Street when it crossed Frederica and then somewhere by the time it got to Triplett, it became 12th Street. And THEN it turned into Leitchfield Road. Back then, it wasn't easy giving an out-of-towner directions if THAT thoroughfare was involved.